Video: UW’s Hau’oli Kikaha getting comfortable in new role as outside linebacker

As a defensive end, Hau’oli Kikaha was named the Huskies’ most valuable defensive player last season, when he finished second in the Pac-12 with 13 sacks — tied for second-most in UW history.

It often seemed as if Kikaha lived in the offensive backfield. His 45 combined quarterback hurries and knockdowns last season were tied for the most in the country, according to Stats LLC.

So it seemed a bit out of place to see Kikaha covering a tight end near the sideline during Monday’s first UW fall-camp practice. It’s a new role Kikaha is getting used to.

“We’re just trying to play to his strengths,” UW defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski said. “He’s got the prototypical build for that position, and I think he fits that position better. …

“The offenses aren’t going to know if he’s coming off the edge (to rush the quarterback) or dropping into coverage. He’s going to give us more flexibility and maybe try to dictate protections and things like that.”